Curriculum
Core Curriculum
Salem maintains a rigorous program of instruction in all of the core subject areas using traditional teaching methods and modern research about how children learn.
Reading
Students in the primary grades use time proven strategies to help students become fluent in decoding and comprehension strategies at an early age. Most students begin reading by the end of their kindergarten year.
In the middle and upper grades teachers use a variety of methods, including use of award winning and classic literature to help students develop higher order reading skills to increase their comprehension abilities and develop a lifelong enjoyment of reading.
Math
Students use traditional methods to master math concepts, problem solving and facts. Most students complete a year of high school level Algebra by the time they graduate. Students with high ability are given the opportunity to complete high school Geometry.
Language Arts
Students are taught grammar and punctuation rules in the primary grades. These skills are practiced and expanded throughout the grades. Students are also encouraged to develop their writing skills through a variety of writing opportunities. Each week the students are taught rules regarding spelling and are given a test on a list of words which reinforce those rules.
Science
The K - 8 science program combines the need for science knowledge and facts with an investigative approach. All our instruction gives glory and credit to God alone for the wonders of his creation. The teachers guide students to discover the wonder of God's creation while being discerning when it comes to ideas that assume evolution.
Social Studies
The K- 8 curriculum emphasizes world and U.S. geography and history. We want students to view all people as a wonderful part of God's creation and emphasize the need for sharing the Gospel to all nations. Beginning in kindergarten students learn about world cultures and countries. Throughout the primary grades students learn of various world climates, countries and cultures as well as places and people in the history of the United States. In the middle and upper grades students get an in depth study of the history and geography of the United States and world.
Enhanced Curriculum
Students are well rounded with various additional classes and electives.
Music
Throughout K - 8 students learn songs about Jesus which they sing in various worship settings. They also learn secular songs and music theory through classroom instruction. Beginning in the middle grades students are encouraged to develop God-given musical talents through participation in
- Band
- Junior Choir
- Hand bells
- Piano
Art
Students learn art techniques through classroom art instruction. An art appreciation component runs throughout the grades and includes studies of works of art and trips to art museums.
P.E.
Physical education is taught throughout the grade levels with emphasis on large and small motor development, fitness, and God-pleasing sportsmanship.
Spanish
All students in grades 1 - 8 participate in a Spanish program of instruction.
Technology
Using our computer lab, technology is used to help reinforce creativity and concepts. A planned program of instruction for K - 8 ensures that students develop the skills necessary to use technology as a tool to enhance their learning and communicate effectively. Students use computers to reinforce and practice skills in other subject areas, gather information, communicate with others, create projects, and make presentations. Further, every classroom is equipped with a Smart Board and Smart Board technology. It is our goal to stay on the cutting edge of technology so we can prepare our students for the world in which they will live and work.
